The Government’s decision to issue asylum seekers with bridging visas to live in the community while their claims are being assessed is a reform we’ve waited a long time to see.
The community sector is working hard to make these new arrangements a success. If you have a spare room in your house, here’s your chance to help.
Anyone willing to host an asylum seeker in their home for a six-week period can now register with the Australian Homestay Network (AHN).
The AHN will provide all approved hosts with information, training, insurance and support services throughout their involvement with the AHN.
Anticipated costs to the host in providing accommodation will be reimbursed by the AHN.
This is a great initiative to complement the Australian Red Cross in its search for short-term accommodation support to eligible asylum seekers coming out of detention.
How you can help
- Register with www.homestaynetwork.org/cpn
- Call the AHN on 1300 697 829
- Other volunteering opportunities can be explored through this link: http://www.refugeecouncil.org.au/getinvolved/volunteer.php
Essential reading
Community detention facts: http://www.immi.gov.au/media/fact-sheets/83acommunity-detention.htm
Australian Red Cross involvement in assisting asylum seekers: http://www.redcross.org.au/community-detention-program.aspx